The Texas Panhandle wildfires broke out on February 26 and continue to wreak havoc. Though largely contained, the Smokehouse Creek Fire is now the largest wildfire in the state’s history, spanning over a million acres in Texas and tens of thousands of acres in Oklahoma. Wildland firefighters have worked tirelessly to control the flames, while first responders focus on treating the people and animals that have been harmed. Devastated areas include Texas communities like Canadian in Hemphill County along with many ranches and farms. Meanwhile, an estimated eight thousand head of cattle have been killed at the height of calving season.
Below are organizations accepting donations or setting up supply drops for those affected.
State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund
The State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund is accepting monetary donations to aid impacted farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness owners as they rebuild from the fires.
Texas A&M’s Veterinary Emergency Team
Texas A&M’s Veterinary Emergency Team (VET) is on the ground providing triage services for injured animals as well as supporting the search and rescue dogs. Monetary donations are being accepted to help fund VET’s equipment needs.
The World Central Kitchen (WCK) has set up outposts in the towns of Canadian, Fritch, Borger, and Stinnett, making meals for the first responders and community members affected by the wildfires. WCK is accepting monetary donations.
The Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association
Through the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) Disaster Relief Fund, cattle raisers can access monetary support following natural disasters. In addition to giving financially, the TSCRA has also published contacts and physical addresses so donors can drop off hay, fencing, and feed.
Operation Blessing is working to provide tangible resources such as prepared food, showers, and supplies to those impacted by the disaster. Donations contribute to their domestic and international emergency relief efforts.
Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation Wildfire Disaster Relief
The Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation is raising money and collecting donations to support their fellow farmers and ranchers affected by the Smokehouse Creek Fire. Monetary donations are accepted as well as hay and feed.
Texas Panhandle Wildfire Relief Resources
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is working with local and state agencies to set up supply points for the ranchers and farmers who took devastating hits from the wildfires. Here is a list of places to drop donations of hay, feed, fencing supplies, and other necessities.
Texas Panhandle Wildfire Relief Fund
This Wildfire Relief Fund distributes the full amount of monetary donations to individuals whose livestock and land are suffering from the effects of the Smokehouse Creek Fire. Donate here.
Red Cross teams across Texas, as well as in Kansas and Oklahoma, are providing resources and services including shelter workers, emergency supplies, and food. To support their efforts, donate here.
To learn more about a charity before donating, consult Charity Navigator.
